Margate To Propose Closing Loophole On Unleashed Dogs

February 19, 1992|By JEFFREY RUBIN, Staff Writer

MARGATE -- A persistent pooch problem -- unleashed dogs -- is the subject of a proposed law being considered this week by the City Commission.

Currently, the city requires dogs to be leashed. But if the dogs are on private property, a leash isn`t required. Mayor Joe Varsallone said this allows unleashed dogs on private lawns or driveways to menace passers-by.

A proposed change in the law coming before the City Commission today attempts to close this loophole. Varsallone said it would require dogs to be leashed whenever they are in non-enclosed places such as fenced-in yards. Owners that keep their dogs in such yards would have to make sure fences are in good repair and enclosed places are secure.

``This will make sure you`re responsible for not letting your dog loose,`` said Vice Mayor Arthur Bross. Bross said his wife suffered a leg injury last summer after being chased by two dogs that had gotten through a broken fence.

City officials said there have been several complaints from residents and letter carriers, about unsecured dogs on private property.

At Wednesday`s meeting, commission members will consider a public advertisement of the proposal. Public hearings would take place in March.